Are you ready to elevate your fitness game? IFTA’s Raleigh Fitness Weekend is just around the corner, promising an unforgettable experience filled with inspiration, community, and personal growth. Whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting your wellness journey, this event has something for everyone. From dynamic workout sessions led by top trainers to informative workshops on nutrition and mental well-being, you’ll discover new ways to challenge yourself and connect with like-minded individuals. We are so excited to meet you in Raleigh for a weekend packed with energy, education, and empowerment—let’s dive into what you can expect and how to make the most of your experience with insights from IFTA’s very own Carter Collins.
What is IFTA Raleigh Fitness Weekend all about?
Raleigh Fitness Weekend is IFTA’s premier annual event. Since the first RFW, 31 years ago, the mission has not changed: deliver the best Continuing Education experiences in a live setting where we can collaborate and learn from each other while finding new ideas to hone our craft.
This year we are donating to the Red Cross of Western North Carolina on behalf of every live participant to help with the ongoing efforts to rebuild our beautiful state after the devastating effects from Hurricane Helene.
What are the main fitness activities and workshops offered during the weekend?
We offer the practical component of certifications on Friday evening. Saturday and Sunday afternoons are filled with classes and lecture sessions to enhance your knowledge and skills. Read more on the general low-down in a previous blog. Our presenter team is offering every modality from land to water for every demographic and skill level imaginable! Our lecture sessions include tips on Nutrition, Sleep, and how to best train Seniors and even build our core! If you are interested and unable to attend this weekend, check out our online offerings for certifications!
Which top 3 fitness trends or topics will be covered during the event?
The top fitness trend currently is Mat Pilates! We are offering a certification on Friday evening for anyone interested in jumping into this tried and true (and trending) modality. We are also offering three different variations of Pilates classes on Saturday and Sunday including one virtually!Â
Low Impact does NOT mean Low Intensity and we will have education throughout the weekend on how to train without damaging impact while keeping the workout results oriented for every fitness level.
Strength training is so important to begin at any age and continue throughout the lifespan. The mechanics of Strength Training are so important to learn correctly from the very beginning!Â
Who are the keynote speakers or featured trainers, and what can participants learn from them?
Our presenter team is some of the most experienced in the country! We have Gay Gasper and Greg Sims presenting this year, both of whom competed on the fitness circuit and are sought after presenters. Maggie Donnelly, Nicholas Kimps, and Carter Collins all hold advanced degrees in their respective fields. Darcy Kent, Marlene Jenkins, and Darise Baron have trained and presented for IFTA (among others) for 20+ years. Matti Fischer and Nah’Jerrelle Graves are experts in Pilates and Personal Training respectively, and Nah’Jerrelle is a former collegiate football player, adding another element to his fitness game! Ashley Dunn has created and trains her own format, BootySculpt!Â
We recruit from the top of the field so that we can bring the best learning experiences to our members!
What fitness levels is the weekend suitable for?
The weekend is targeted towards educating our instructor and trainer base, but it is open to anyone wanting to learn more. If you are new to the fitness industry and wondering where to start, RFW is absolutely for you. You will gain awesome ideas for classes and, with a live experience, you can pick the brains of our talented team to help you get started. Additionally, RFW is a great place to network if you are looking for a job in the fitness industry. Many local (and not so local!) clubs will be represented. If you are a seasoned fitness pro, this is also the event for you. Gain the knowledge needed to further educate your own members and hone your skills.
What should participants bring or wear for the weekend?
Wear athletic gear that is comfortable for movement along with appropriate shoes. You might want to bring a sweat towel or change of clothes as well. If you are attending a lecture, or have some down time between classes, throw a sweatshirt in your gym bag too. The gym is always chilly, and we want you to be comfortable to learn your best! There are locker rooms and shower facilities on site that you are most welcome to use.
Are there any special events, social gatherings, or networking opportunities that may be more like hidden gems?
Although we do not have a specific spot for clubs to set up, our presenter team teaches and trains all over North Carolina, and some in other states. If you are looking to network with area professionals, please let us know and we will put you in touch with the presenter from the corresponding area. Most of our presenters are well connected with their communities and have leadership roles themselves and would love to chat about career opportunities!Â
What is the schedule for the weekend, and how can attendees best plan their time?
The event begins on Saturday at noon. This gives those outside the area ample time to arrive at Lifetime Athletic on Saturday. Give yourself some time to check in and sign the waiver form. It is best practice to arrive 30 minutes early. Our team will be stationed around the club to help you find your assigned studio for your class or lecture. The format on Sunday will be the same. With classes beginning at noon, you have plenty of time to fuel up before the event starts! Be sure to create a well rounded schedule. Pepper in some cardio, strength, mind/body, and lecture classes to keep you physically and mentally sharp all weekend!
Register before the event for the best experience. If you arrive and decide you want to participate in a few more classes, you may still register on site. Be sure to preorder your IFTA shirt too! You can pick it up at the event!
What accommodations and amenities are available near the event?
There are several options just one exit away from LifeTime just off of Interstate 540. Check out some of these:Â Home 2 Suites By Hilton, Hilton Garden Inn, Courtyard by Marriott, or Fairfield Inn and Suites. All of these hotels and LifeTime Athletic are just a 15-20 minute drive from the airport, and our Uber and Lyft networks are strong in this area. Dining options are everywhere and all of the mentioned hotels are right in the Triangle Town Center shopping district. For further information, please reach out to us at the office or at [email protected]. We are so happy to help you to have the best experience!
What are the key takeaways or benefits of attending the event?
Raleigh Fitness Weekend is an incredible opportunity to gain Continuing Education Credits to renew your certifications in a live, collaborative, hands on setting. The information and networking opportunities are invaluable to maintain the highest level of fitness instruction and coaching. It is the most interactive way to learn all year long!
What is one thing you want participants to remember throughout the weekend?
Collaboration is at the heart of all that we do. We are so excited to both teach you new things and learn from all that you give to your members every day. We are all here to sweat and learn together and from each other in an inclusive environment designed to meet you where you are. We are thrilled to welcome those attending for the first time, and those familiar faces who have attended year after year. All are welcome at Raleigh Fitness Weekend! Â
As a reminder, this year we are donating to the Red Cross of Western North Carolina on behalf of every live participant to help with the ongoing efforts to rebuild our beautiful state after the devastating effects from Hurricane Helene.
